The One Chicago universe — made up of Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and Chicago Med — has captivated fans for over a decade with its emotional storytelling, complex characters, and high-stakes action. While the shows continue to evolve, many fans are yearning for something fresh — a new way to experience the world they love without abandoning its roots. That’s where prequels come in.
Before he became the controversial sergeant leading Intelligence, Hank Voight was a street cop with a reputation for bending the rules. A prequel centered around a younger Voight in the ’90s would allow fans to witness the moral crossroads that shaped him. From his time in Vice to his first big undercover operation, this series could explore how Voight became both feared and respected. It could also offer glimpses of his relationship with his late wife and his son Justin, giving emotional weight to his hardened persona.
Battalion Chief Wallace Boden is the foundation of Chicago Fire. But what was he like as a young lieutenant or newly minted captain? A prequel focused on his first command post could show the challenges of leadership in a system that wasn’t always kind to Black officers. This series could include early mentorships and offer a raw look at what forged Boden into the stoic leader he is today. Before his role on Intelligence, Antonio Dawson was a detective with a moral compass that often put him at odds with Voight. A prequel diving into his days in the Gang Unit or as a beat cop would allow viewers to understand how he became the principled cop we met in Chicago P.D. Season 1. It could also show his early relationship with his sister Gabby and his struggle balancing family and justice.
While Firehouse 51 gets the spotlight, Chicago is full of historic firehouses with untold stories. A standalone prequel about Firehouse 17 in the early 2000s — a now-closed unit with legends whose stories still echo — would create new heroes and provide crossover opportunities. It could subtly tie into Chicago Fire lore by revealing how Boden or Severide once worked alongside these forgotten firefighters.
Before Will became an ER doc and Jay joined Intelligence, the Halstead brothers had a complicated upbringing in Chicago’s working-class neighborhoods. A prequel series that jumps between teenage Jay trying to stay out of trouble and young Will grinding through med school could spotlight the tension and love that shaped their adult lives. It’s a family drama with high emotional stakes — and it deepens two central characters across the franchise.
Though rarely mentioned, the impact of September 11th, 2001 likely shaped many characters in the One Chicago world. A limited prequel series following a Chicago-based response unit sent to assist in the aftermath of 9/11 could provide context to the bravery and trauma these characters carry. Featuring younger versions of Boden, Voight, and even Mouch, the show could mix real history with emotional storytelling, offering a poignant tribute to first responders.
As One Chicago nears 15 seasons across its main titles, the challenge is keeping stories fresh while honoring the legacy fans love. Prequels offer the best of both worlds — familiar characters in unfamiliar timelines, emotional backstories, and high-stakes drama from a new perspective. They also create a perfect entry point for new viewers while rewarding long-time fans with rich lore. Whether it’s young Voight bending the rules or Platt proving herself in a skeptical department, the One Chicago world is ripe with history just waiting to be told.
